A LANDMARK office tower in east Birmingham could be demolished to make way for a £10 million apartment block.

Developer Cala Homes wants to replace the former Glynwed block in Coventry Road, Sheldon, with flats.

The tower was abandoned when pipe-maker Glynwed moved out, and has since become a target for vandals and anti-social activities.

If plans are approved the site, on one of Birmingham's key commuter routes, will be redeveloped with a block of 130 one and two-bedroom flats. Cala claims that many of the flats will be at a price affordable to first-time buyers and senior citizens.

Managing director Andy Wilkins said: "This site is a real eyesore which stands on a gateway route into our city and is seen by every car driver and passenger entering and leaving Birmingham on the A45.

"It is also a focus for antisocial behaviour and a constant source of problems for residents in the nearby family homes of Sheldon and Yardley."

The company wants residents to comment on the development before it is considered by Birmingham City Council's planning committee in the autumn.